Why Creativity Is More Than Just a Hobby—It’s a Lifeline
Psychologists say painting nature reduces anxiety, while others believe art is a way to express emotions. If I’m being honest, that’s probably why I started.
From the time I was a little girl, I have loved writing poems, short stories, and songs. It has always been a form of therapy for me. I didn’t know it then, but writing, singing, drawing, dancing—pretty much all things art—became my outlets for release, healing, recentering, and growth.
I remember when my siblings and I used to play a game called "Up Against the Wall." We’d gather in the middle room of our house, each taking turns to stand up and perform whatever we wanted—singing, dancing, reciting poetry, or acting out a monologue. The only rule? It had to be engaging enough to keep the others interested.
Apparently, I was a natural comedian. I didn’t even know what a comedian was at the time—I just loved making my siblings laugh. I’d do funny voices and crack myself up so much that we’d all end up laughing until we cried.
One of the most influential people in my creative journey was my fifth-grade teacher, Mrs. Wiggins. She introduced me to so many forms of art—crocheting intricate mesh designs, making Christmas wreaths, and even crafting handmade greeting cards. Ironically, I enjoyed her projects more than the traditional art classes we had at school.
By middle school, I was learning to sew. I figured out how to mend holes in my jeans, replace buttons on my blouses, and even sew pillows and curtains. I also took drawing classes, which captivated me—until I became discouraged. My faces didn’t look realistic, and at the time, I didn’t realize that abstract art was just as valuable and expressive.
Fast forward to 2020, during the worldwide shutdown—I picked up a paintbrush and instantly fell in love with painting. Nature became my muse.
I can’t speak for every artist, but I know firsthand that creativity can be a lifeline. Having experienced a host of traumas before the age of 10, I needed creative expression—it has likely saved my life. I still write, paint, and sketch from time to time. I never mastered drawing lifelike faces, but I’ve learned to embrace the soothing nature of simply creating.
And when I watch television shows, movies, or Netflix series, I am convinced now more than ever—art does, indeed, imitate life.
To My Fellow Creatives:
Keep creating for the joy of it. If you only focus on feeding yourself, the pressure might suck the life out of your art. Do it because you love it, and trust that everything else will fall into place.
Disclaimer:
This blog post and all associated artwork are the original works of the author. No part of this content—written or visual—may be copied, quoted, reproduced, or distributed without prior written authorization from the author. All rights reserved.
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